Fresh details have emerged on the death of one of Nigerias most notorious bandits, Kachalla Yellow Danbokolo, who was killed over the weekend during a fierce clash with the Shinkafi Volunteer Forces in Zamfara State.
Kachalla Yellow, known for his reign of terror across Zamfara and parts of the North-West, was reportedly killed alongside over 173 of his men during a surprise onslaught launched by local volunteer fighters.
According to security sources, the operation was swift and devastating, catching the bandits off guard in their hideout.
READ ALSO: Bandit leader Bello Turji imposes N50m farming fee on Zamfara, Niger communities
His death has sparked widespread celebration across Zamfara and neighbouring states, where communities have lived in fear of his deadly operations for years. Locals have long regarded Kachalla Yellow as even more dangerous than his cousin and fellow bandit leader, Bello Turji, whom they describe as merely a spokesperson for the regions violent gangs.
According to the sources, Kachalla Yellow, who sustained serious gun injuries during the attack, died over the weekend and was buried on Saturday.
His death and that of several fighters loyal to him were reportedly being celebrated, particularly by residents of Kurya District in the Shinkafi Local Government Area, whom he had terrorised for years.
A villager said, We are in a serious celebration mood. It is hard to believe that Danbokolo, a man whose name used to strike fear in our hearts, is no more. I can authoritatively tell you that Danbokolo is the man behind the mask. He is the overall commander. Turji merely communicates while the dreaded Danbokolo is the executioner of all evil.
Not only Danbokolo was killed; at least 173 bandits loyal to him have been killed and buried within the week and several of them have fled the community. We see them running away after every raid on their hideouts.
Another resident confirmed that known loyalists of Turji are now in a state of fear and confusion, and that some are now seeking to surrender as they see the end in sight.
He said, This is the first time we believe that these bandits will soon be gone for good. Bello Turji has no hiding place. Knowing that his days are numbered, he and some of his foot soldiers have begun to desperately beg for amnesty.
The source said locals including farmers have expressed hopes that they wont have to pay taxes to bandits in this farming season.
